PREP BASEBALL: Rancho Bernardo's Haynal verbals with Aztecs

Brad Haynal, an All-CIF San Diego Section selection as a junior
catcher at Rancho Bernardo High last season, has committed to play
baseball in 2011 at San Diego State.

"I love the coaching staff there," the 6-foot-2, 195-pound
Haynal said. "I love the way they play. I love the facilities and
the fact that they're committed to winning."

Haynal, the son of former Escondido High and Westmont College
basketball standout Brad Haynal, said his final three choices were
San Diego State, the University of San Diego and Arizona State.

"In my heart, I felt San Diego State was the right place for
me," he said.

Haynal hit .410 with nine home runs, 16 doubles, two triples and
31 RBIs as a junior last season. He's also considered a top-notch
defensive catcher.

"Brad has developed into quite a player," said veteran Rancho
Bernardo coach Sam Blalock. "He has a good head for the game. He's
a real leader on our club. And he has a knack for hitting. He has
hit at every level, and now the power is coming.

"He has a great body for a catcher ---- tall and lean with broad
shoulders."

Haynal, who played shortstop and third base as a freshman and
sophomore, became a full-time catcher last season.

"And I hope to play that position as long as I play," said
Haynal, who was an All-State Underclass pick by Ca-lHi Sports. "I
love getting dirty, I love how fierce it is behind the plate.

"Honestly, catching is addicting."

Haynal is the second North County star in recent weeks to commit
to San Diego State for the 2011 season, joining Escondido High
shortstop Tim Zier.

Contact staff writer John Maffei at 760-740-3547 or
jmaffei@nctimes.com.